There is an increasing need to respond to the displacement and destruction of communities and their infrastructure through both natural and manmade disasters. There is also the need to build the resilience of vulnerable communities in disaster-prone areas. Although there is now wide recognition of these needs and support for it, there is also the awareness that the way support is provided needs change.
The Executive Director of Shelter and Settlement for the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC), Graham Saunders, has been involved as a consultant on the development of this program and stated that:
“Many [international development] agencies are represented on shelter issues by logisticians or generalists without a specific background or understanding of the built environment. This is why a degree such as MoDDD is critical in addressing the complex design and planning tasks needed to rebuild the physical and social infrastructure, after disaster.”
Developed in close collaboration with IFRC, this first of its kind program provides a global learning platform connecting students with industry developments, area specialists and current practices.
The program delivers specialised knowledge and practical skills drawn from a range of practitioners and academics and you will work with global industry leaders such as IFRC and UN-Habitat on disaster simulations and projects. You will research and develop design informed strategies and spatial solutions for implementation in real world scenarios such as natural disasters, complex emergencies and development projects.
You will graduate with a specialised knowledge of design processes, leadership skills and the ability to apply expert judgement to complex problems in disaster mitigation and development.
The program includes intensive seminars and workshops in Melbourne or Barcelona, online electives and field trips.
Whether you have studied or worked in disaster management or recovery, or are interested in moving into this field and want to develop your conceptual thinking and problem solving skills, this unique design focused program will enhance your capabilities to be an innovative leader.
Organization: RMIT University
Learn more: Master's Program, Disasters, Design and Development